LOCATION: North Cowichan BC | TYPE: Fountainscape | COMPLETED: 2023 | CLIENT: Private Residence | Budget: $22,000
Claire and Renald’s back deck was so sweltering in summer that they found themselves lingering out front, on a driveway-turned-patio, just to catch a break from the heat. Although cooler, the courtyard lacked purpose. It was missing that special spark—an actual reason to stay outside and savor the moment.
They knew they wanted something more inspiring in their courtyard, but they weren’t sure what. Two previous landscapers had cleaned up the beds, yet the space still felt like an afterthought. Claire and Renald needed a focal point that would make their improvised patio irresistible—a place where they’d actually want to slow down and soak in the day.
The real stumbling block wasn’t the space or the plants; it was imagination. Neither Claire and Renald or the other landscapers had considered anything beyond basic tidy-ups.
Claire and Renald had a lot of nice patio furniture, they just needed something for the furniture to face. A water feature—especially a fully integrated fountainscape—was practically unheard of for this spot. Most people don’t realize how feasible (and magical) it can be to install a bubbling oasis right next to a patio.
They’d hired help twice, hoping fresh eyes would spark ideas. But while the beds looked better, nothing truly drew them in. Without a centerpiece or creative vision, the courtyard remained a quick pass-through—never the relaxing hideaway they craved.
We saw the courtyard as a blank canvas for a one-of-a-kind fountainscape. Here’s what made it possible:
This design means you can’t see everything in a single glance—visitors (and the homeowners) are compelled to wander around, discovering new details and hidden pockets of life at each turn.
Now, Claire and Renald have the retreat they never knew was possible. Evenings find them outside, mesmerized by the gentle splash of cascading water and the dancing reflections on stone. They’ve gained more than a place to sit—they have a true conversation piece that attracts birds and friendly wildlife, turning their once-overlooked courtyard into the highlight of their home.
It’s no longer just a cooler spot than the deck—it’s a sanctuary they don’t want to leave.
Do you want to turn your backyard into a peaceful escape? We can help. Whether designing a custom water feature or transforming your outdoor space, our expertise in creating beautiful, functional landscapes will make your vision a reality.
In the first installment of our Sandbox Series, we’re experimenting with different fountain “toppers” using the same AquaBasin 45 reservoir. Our goal? To demonstrate how a single setup can transform in multiple ways—each with its own vibe, sound, and visual impact. These are our most affordable water features.
Ray and Heather had a steep, slippery lawn that was nearly impossible to mow—especially during the rainy season. After two previous projects with us, they knew who to call for help transforming their tricky slope into a natural woodland extension of the nearby green space.
Building your watergarden dreams.
Serving:
Qualicum Beach
Parksville
Nanoose
Coombs
Errington
Lantzville
Nanaimo
Cedar
Gabriola
Cedar
Ladysmith
Saltair
Chemainus
Crofton
North Cowichan
Duncan
Nanaimo Watergardens & Landscaping respectfully acknowledges that it operates as an uninvited guest of the Snuneymuxw and Snaw-naw-as people on their traditional and unceded territory.
